The official numbers from the The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division have been released for 2024 and we ask the owner of Foundry Distillery to guess them all. Scott Bush, who was also the founder of Templeton Rye takes a stab at the top 5 national and top 5 local Iowa brands and is shockingly accurate.
We discuss the bizarre law that drives up your booze prices, why new liquor competition has exploded in Iowa, and Justin admits his disdain for one of Iowa’s most-loved whiskey brands: Black Velvet. Iowa, we need to have a talk—this is not acceptable behavior!
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Navigating Declining Alcohol Sales Nationwide
Scott Bush, founder of Foundry Distilling, joined the Iowa Podcast to discuss emerging trends in the liquor industry. Amid a first-time decline in alcohol sales in Iowa and nationwide, Bush attributed the trend to factors such as the popularity of THC-infused beverages, health-conscious choices by younger generations, and the rise of alcoholic seltzers. This shift, he noted, reflects broader macroeconomic and cultural changes.
From Templeton Rye to Foundry Distilling: A New Vision
Known for his pivotal role in Templeton Rye’s success, Bush has shifted focus to Foundry Distilling in West Des Moines. The distillery’s innovative Private Barrel Club allows individuals and groups to craft custom whiskey brands, a concept resonating with customers celebrating milestones or personal achievements.
Iowa’s Regulatory Landscape and Market Saturation
Bush elaborated on the unique challenges facing Iowa-based distilleries, including the state’s status as a “control state” that enforces strict pricing and distribution rules. This system often inflates prices compared to neighboring states like Minnesota. Additionally, the explosive growth in craft distilleries has led to intense competition, making shelf space scarce and survival difficult for smaller brands.
Local Innovations and Global Aspirations
Foundry Distilling embraces Iowa’s agricultural heritage through products like Maytag Mead, crafted with honey from Maytag Dairy Farms. The distillery also collaborates with breweries to transform beer recipes into whiskies, showcasing its commitment to innovation. Bush highlighted Iowa’s ideal climate for whiskey aging and expressed confidence in the state’s potential to rival Kentucky’s reputation.
Looking Ahead
Despite industry hurdles, Bush remains optimistic. By blending creativity with community-focused initiatives, Foundry Distilling continues to adapt to the evolving market. His reflections underline the importance of balancing tradition with innovation to sustain relevance in an increasingly crowded field.